Letter of Introduction (posted January 20) Maddie Culp - Letter of Introduction
I am generally a huge procrastinator, but this semester I hope to become more on top of my work. I also hope to become a stronger writer. What to know about me, I don’t play any sports. I have a job and I work every day. I go to all of the basketball games. My biggest challenges as a writer is my process. I tend to be all over the place and kind of un-organized when i begin writing. Probably a cause of my procrastination.
Personal Reflection on Topic of Inquiry(posted January 27 -- Peer Response January 29)
Topic of Inquiry
The major events that have shaped my life today have all been based around the youth group at the church I have been a member at for sixteen years. The youth group, called the Senior Highs, takes a summer trip every year to a developing community, a community that may be falling apart, or one in need of labor and love. Over the past three summers, my personal philosophy and life values have been drastically shaped and challenged. I have needed to rethink my values which were shaped from my culture and step into a complete opposite persons life to understand their way of living. My judgements towards my previous misconception about other cultures was changed for the better and I understand that different does not mean better or worse.
In Spanish III, we are learning about cultural awareness and ways to understand different life styles. Some customs in America are normal to us which may be frowned upon in other countries, and we are learning to respect the change. We were told to respond to what differences shock us and why. My response to all of the questions were based upon my morals and values, which I have been taught being raised and through church.
Recently, on a Wednesday night at church, the Senior Highs listened to a guest speaker who informed us about human trafficking. She spoke to us about about the statistics and ways to end the horrible act. Human trafficking, a modern form of slavery that is so oblivious to society is a global current crisis. The definition of human trafficking is the illegal trade of human beings for the purposes of reproductive slavery, commercial sexual exploitation, forced labor, or a modern-day form of slavery.
There are 161 countries reported to be affected with human trafficking, an unacceptable way of life, and it is all they know. It is what they have been taught in their culture to be normal. This act is is not something I will ever respect. The shocking statistic is how common slavery is in the United States and how unaware the country is. The term, “pimp” is used so loosely as if it has no real life meaning and is taken as a joke.
This serious crisis has shaped my view on self respect and taking advantage of my freedom. 98% of the victims to human trafficking are woman, and 95% of all victims experience sexual or physical violence. My question is, if so many people don’t have the privilege of freedom, why do so many free people disrespect and misuse their freedom? And why are we doing nothing to end slavery, an increasing illegal current issue?
Rough Draft Definition (posted February 3 -- Peer Response February 5)
At Westminster church, the senior highs meet every Wednesday for youth group. We are a close group because outside of this weekly time, we take a summer trip to do mission work. We are taught morals and acts of kindness in this time, and it has mostly shaped a majority of who participates in the youth as well as the leaders. A couple of months ago a guest speaker named Chelsea came to present a power point to the youth group. She informed us of a crisis that is affected greatly third world countries and even the United States. The crisis is slavery. But more specifically, human trafficking. There is a great misconception in the world that slavery refers to the imprisonment of colored people to do manual labor for white men and woman.
The term slavery can have many meanings, but in this case is defined in another classification. The specific classification for the term is human trafficking. This term can be described as the state of one bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Without further explanation hearing the term slave one might think of a different meaning. Human trafficking is the recruiting, transportation, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means for the purpose of exploiting them. The person is not gender or age specific but is more often young woman.
Society is blinded by the illegal actions because is some developing nations where the crime is most often committed, it is not illegal. Cambodia is an example of a country that does not take action against the act. In some countries in order to live, slavery is accepted. The money is a last resort and mandatory in families. Prostitution is the act or practice of engaging in promiscuous sexual relations in exchange for money. When slavery took place in the United States, slave owners would pay thousands of dollars for a person. Today, when a person who is subjugated to crime is paid little to none. The profits often go to the slaves “pimp.” The term pimp is loosely used in modern day. Pimp’s are associated with slang and are often incorporated in hip-hop.
Behind drug trafficking, human trafficking is the most common illegal act in the world. Brothel’s are the most common the place to hold prostitutes. A brothel is a place where the prostitutes live with their pimps. They are located all over the world. Yes, in the United States, too. If the crime was not just a number to society, and citizens had a face to match the terrifying stories, the crime would be more problematic to the media.
The ignorance among society has led the criminal act to escalade into a crisis that demands mandatory action in ending human trafficking. Day after day young girls and boys are forced to work in order to keep their lives, while kids in the United States complain of chores in a luxurious life style. The morals I have been raised with have taught me that this behavior, no matter what country or government are not with justice. The actions poorly display moral rectitude and the issue needs attention.
Revision Definition (posted February 10 -- Peer Response February 12 )
The youth group at Westminster Presbyterian Church, has been the most important factor of my life so far. This group of friends and leaders has shaped who I am today. The values and morals I have learned throughout the years volunteering and helping others have influenced me greatly. I have not only had the opportunity of helping people, but have had time to learn and become educated of those I cannot directly help. A couple of months ago a guest speaker named Chelsea came to present a power point to the youth group. She believed that informing us of the crisis could help. Chelsea’s power point focused on slavery and more specifically human trafficking. In modern days society, most individuals would say that slavery ended in the 1800’s along with racism in the South and Africa. This is a misconception because a standard definition of slavery refers to the imprisonment of colored people to do manual labor for white men and woman.
The term slavery can have many meanings, but in this case is defined in another classification. Exaggerations lead to ignorance and misconceptions in society. Many times teenagers of first world countries refer to the term slavery very loosely, as if they were slaves to their parents. This helps shape the definition of what human trafficking and slavery is not. Without further explanation hearing the term slave one might think of a different meaning. Human trafficking is the recruiting, transportation, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means for the purpose of exploiting them. The person is not gender or age specific but is more often young woman.
Human trafficking is happening now. Society is blinded by the illegal actions because is some developing nations where the crime is most often committed, it is not illegal. Cambodia is an example of a country that does not take action against the act. In fact in some countries it is accepted and even expected of some family members in order to live. In Cambodia, the head officer in the police department is also the in charge of the top brothel. A brothel is another word for a whore-house, or home of prostitution. Prostitution is the act or practice of engaging in promiscuous sexual relations in exchange for money. When slavery took place in the United States, slave owners would pay thousands of dollars for a person. Today, when a person who is subjugated to crime is paid little to none. The profits often go to the slaves “pimp.” The term pimp is loosely used in modern day. Pimp’s are associated with slang and are often incorporated in hip-hop.
Behind drug trafficking, human trafficking is the most common illegal act in the world. Brothel’s are the most common the place to hold prostitutes. These systems are located all over the world, even within the United States. Human trafficking occurs in these brothels that may be in your own back yard. If the crime was not just a number to society, and citizens had a face to match the terrifying stories, the crime would be more problematic to the media.
The ignorance among society has led the criminal act to escalade into a crisis that demands mandatory action in ending human trafficking. Day after day young girls and boys are forced to work in order to keep their lives, while kids in the United States complain of chores in a luxurious life style. I stated that I have not only had the opportunity of helping others but also learning of the things I cannot affect. But this is not true. By becoming part of the cause, and teaching those we are ignorant, we are making a difference. The morals I have been raised with have taught me that this behavior, no matter what country or government are not with justice. The actions poorly display moral rectitude and the issue needs attention. Final Definition (posted February 17 -- Peer ResponseFebruary 19 ) (Are there changes between the revision above and the final draft? Mr. J)
Maddie Culp
Block 2
Mr. Johnson
AP Lang
Definition Essay
The youth group at Westminster Presbyterian Church, which I am a member of, has been the most important variable in my life. This group of friends and leaders has shaped who I am today because of the values and morals I have learned throughout the years volunteering and helping others. Unfortunately, I have not only had the opportunity of helping people. A couple of months ago a guest speaker named Chelsea came to present a power point to the youth group. She believed that by informing us on the tragedy it would help the cause. Chelsea’s power point focused on slavery and more specifically human trafficking. In modern days society, most individuals would say that slavery ended in the 1800’s along with racism in the South and Africa. This is a misconception because a standard definition of slavery refers to the imprisonment of colored people to do manual labor for white men and woman.
The term slavery can have many meanings, but in this case is defined in another classification. Teenagers have been known to make claims such as, “My parents treat me as their slave.” Exaggerations lead to ignorance and misconceptions in society. The specific classification for the term is human trafficking. This term can be described as the state of one bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Without further explanation hearing the term slave one might think of a different meaning. Human trafficking is the recruiting, transportation, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means for the purpose of exploiting them. The person is not gender or age specific but is more often young woman.
Human trafficking is happening now. Society is blinded by the illegal actions because is some developing nations where the crime is most often committed, it is not illegal. Cambodia is an example of a country that does not take action against the act. In fact in some countries it is accepted and even expected of some family members in order to live. In Cambodia, the head officer in the police department is also the in charge of the top brothel. A brothel is another word for a whore-house, or home of prostitution. Prostitution is the act or practice of engaging in promiscuous sexual relations in exchange for money. When slavery took place in the United States, slave owners would pay thousands of dollars for a person. Today, when a person who is subjugated to crime is paid little to none. The profits often go to the slaves “pimp.” The term pimp is loosely used in modern day. Pimp’s are associated with slang and are often incorporated in hip-hop.
Behind drug trafficking, human trafficking is the most common illegal act in the world. Brothel’s are the most common the place to hold prostitutes. These systems are located all over the world, even within the United States. If the crime was not just a number to society, and citizens had a face to match the terrifying stories, the crime would be more problematic to the media.
The ignorance among society has led the criminal act to escalade into a crisis that demands mandatory action in ending human trafficking. Day after day young girls and boys are forced to work in order to keep their lives, while kids in the United States complain of chores in a luxurious life style. The morals I have been raised with have taught me that this behavior, no matter what country or government are not with justice. The actions poorly display moral rectitude and the issue needs attention.
Reflection #1 (posted February 20 -- Peer Response February 22)
What was the purpose of the writing? How successfully did you meet this purpose?
The purpose of this writing was to educate society and define the misconception of the term, "slavery" and human trafficking. The term slavery in today's society is not as powerful and often misinterpreted as only history. Society is also very ignorant to the fact that slavery still exists and is happening now. It is a current issue that needs to be educated. I think I successfully defined the term as well as explained modern statistics and it's immediacy to be fought.
Who was your intended audience? How did you adapt your writing to appeal to this audience?
My intended audience was society and more specifically an uneducated high school. The audience could've been anyone who inquired to know more about the illegal acts or someone wanting to know the definition of the term. I adapted to the audience by breaking down the definition so that it could be fully understood by anyone. Being a high schooler myself, I know that teenagers do not connect to this topic well so I made it more personal by using pathos.
Explain the exigence that influenced the selection of your topic.
I wrote about this term because I was strongly influenced by the church I attend. A guest speaker came in to our church to educate the high schoolers of the crime. Because I was so struck by her presentation I thought that other kids as well might be interested in knowing the acts happening that we don't know about. I think living in a society with so much ignorance is pathetic and it is important to be aware of these things.
How does your writing draw attention to the key aspects of your message?
Ultimately I thought my message would get across to the reader by the way I organized and defined the essay. I knew I needed to get the attention of the audience by making it more personable and intense. My reason for writing the essay was to educate at that was the basis of the message.
In what ways did you create tone to reflect your persona?
The tone I used was informative but also a bit of satire. Making fun of a society that is so involved with major issues that cause attention to the press but not issues that directly affect the children of our country, and world.
Rough Draft Comparison (postedFebruary 24 -- Peer Response February 26 )
My computer didn't save my essay from last week......... So here is a general rough draft again that I will edit and add to throughout the week.
Maddie Culp
Block 2
AP Lang
5 March 2012 Comparison Essay
Slavery is term that has been incorporated throughout society since prehistoric times. During the middle ages in Greece and the Roman Empire, slavery reached its peak. Slavery then declined around the world until the 1500’s and 1600’s when colonization of the new world began. When morals and attitudes toward slavery began to change in the 1800’s it began to decline around the world. Slavery was abolished from the United States in 1865. History has defined slaves as the state of one, bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Slaves often worked on farms, working for those who captured them. Although some slaves worked to pay off debts, they were all considered the lowest of class. The United States knows slaves to be generally from Africa. The slaves were shipped over in the early 1600’s to Jamestown, Virginia. They were auctioned and sold to rich white plantation owners more so in the south. They were often split from their families who tried and more so than not failed to reunite. As technology advanced in the 1700’s, the slaves were less useful because they were not as productive. The slaves began to protest against their inhumane conditions and rebelled. The Revolutionary War was the beginning of significant attitude changes toward the liberty of whites. This attitude was primarily in the north. As the 1800’s progressed, the south began less in control of the blacks as their slaves. Racism and discrimination against the Africans and African-Americans carried on and even today still exists, but there is no longer slavery in the United States.
But in what sense has slavery been terminated... (I am going to write abou
Revision Comparison (posted March 2 -- Peer Response March 4)
Maddie Culp
Block 2
AP Lang
5 March 2012 Comparison Essay
Slavery is term that has been incorporated throughout society since prehistoric times. During the middle ages in Greece and the Roman Empire, slavery reached its peak. Slavery then declined around the world until the 1500’s and 1600’s when colonization of the new world began. When morals and attitudes toward slavery began to change in the 1800’s it began to decline around the world. Slavery was abolished from the United States in 1865. History has defined slaves as the state of one, bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Slaves often worked on farms, working for those who captured them. Although some slaves worked to pay off debts, they were all considered the lowest of class. The United States knows slaves to be generally from Africa. The slaves were shipped over in the early 1600’s to Jamestown, Virginia. They were auctioned and sold to rich white plantation owners more so in the south. They were often split from their families who tried and more so than not failed to reunite. As technology advanced in the 1700’s, the slaves were less useful because they were not as productive. The slaves began to protest against their inhumane conditions and rebelled. The Revolutionary War was the beginning of significant attitude changes toward the liberty of whites. This attitude was primarily in the north. As the 1800’s progressed, the south began less in control of the blacks as their slaves. Racism and discrimination against the Africans and African-Americans carried on and even today still exists, but there is no longer slavery in the United States.
But in what sense has slavery been terminated... In modern society, a form of slavery is at an all time peak. This slavery is called human trafficking. Human trafficking is found within the United States, bordering countries, and most commonly in third world countries. This type of modern slavery is defined as an act of recruiting, transporting, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means, for the purpose of exploiting them. Humans that are objected to human trafficking, share the comparison with previous slavery, that another person has control over them. Often the persons objected to human trafficking are kid-napped or lured into a trap. At this point the pimps use the person most commonly as sex slaves. A major contrast between previous slavery and the modern human trafficking is the cost of the person. In the 1800’s slave owners would pay an average of $7,000/slave. A pimp considers their sex slaves almost worthless and if they are not kidnapped they may pay $100 per person. These people, more often woman than man, are then abused by whomever decides to use them. Final Comparison (posted March 9 -- Peer Response March 11)
Early Slavery v. Modern Slavery
Slavery is a term that has been incorporated throughout society forever. During the middle ages, in Greece and the Roman Empire, slavery reached its peak. Slavery then began declined all around the world until the 1500’s and 1600’s, at which time colonization of the New World began. The slaves were shipped to the United States in the early 1600’s, to Jamestown, Virginia as colonization began. In the 1800’s morals regarding slavery began slowly transforming and as a result slavery declined around the world. Slavery was abolished from the United States in 1865. Slavery has impacted the world to this day, and prejudice views still remain.
History has defined slaves as the state of one, bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Slaves often worked on farms, working for those who captured them. Although some slaves worked to pay off debts, they were all considered the lowest of class. The United States commonly knew slaves to be from parts Africa. They were auctioned to rich, white, plantation owners of the south. Families were separated as another way to decrease their humanity.
By the 1700’s, technology began advancing, resulting in the cost of slaves to decline because they were less productive. The slaves began to protest against their inhumane conditions and rebelled, which led to the Revolutionary War. The war was the beginning of significant attitude changes towards liberty of slaves. The war ultimately led to a legal end of slavery but racism and discrimination against the Africans and African-Americans has carried on to this day.
But in what sense has slavery been terminated... In modern society, a form of slavery is at an all time peak. This slavery is called human trafficking. Human trafficking is found within the United States, in bordering countries, and most commonly in third world countries. This type of modern slavery is defined as an act of recruiting, transporting, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means, for the purpose of exploiting them.
Victims that are objected to human trafficking share common traits as previous slavery. Both types of slavery consist of another person having control over the other. Often the person objected to human trafficking is kid-napped or taken under their own will. Human trafficking is most often focused around physical harassment and using the victims as a sex slave.
When comparing slaves from the past to human sex slaves, a major contrast is the price of a person. In the 1800’s, rich slave owners would pay an average of $7,000/slave. Currently, because human trafficking is illegal, the most common way a pimp or brothel will bring in slaves is by abduction or trade. These slaves, more often woman than man, are then abused by whomever decides to use them.
Slavery of the past has been overcome in society and fought. Human trafficking is not as controversial today as slavery was in the 1800‘s when it was fought, because it is such an ignorant topic to a majority of society. Both types of slavery are morally wrong and unjust. Two types of slavery, with similar traits that are inhumane in society and to the individual, and one has yet to be overcome. Reflection #2 (posted March 16 -- Peer Response March 25)
The purpose was to learn how to analyze and compare two subjects at a collegiate level. My essay compared to two different types of slavery and also to inform a general audience. My intended audience was my classmates and Mr. Johnson. I adapted my writing in a way to explain because knowledge of human trafficking is an ignorant subject to most of society. The exigence of my writing was influenced by my personal experience at church. As we began to learn about the subject I felt it was necessary to engage myself more, and research further, as well as inform others. My essay is in the block format, which allows key points to be made and drawn attention to. The paragraphs explain the difference of the two forms of slavery. My tone was informative and had a little pathos, so the audience would feel more engaged and personal. Rough Draft Argument (posted April 6 -- Peer Response April 8) Argument Essay
The act and concept of volunteering and participating in charity work displays kindness and caring for another person, a group, a cooperation, etc. There are ample opportunities throughout communities to give back; a few of them including religious, school incorporated, and business competitions. Charities promote their volunteer work by influencing the volunteer person or group of a selfless act to help others. Although volunteer work is almost always positive and helpful, the idea has been corrupted. Often the charities are rewarded with a selfish prize being their motivation win rather than give back. So is charity selfish, or selfless?
While volunteering it is healthy to maintain self recognition while doing these acts and acknowledging the reason a person participates to help in the first place. Although while helping, it is important to understand and remember why these charities exist and what the cause is for.
Middle Schools and High School often incorporate volunteer competitions or fundraisers in order to receive better results. Participants want to help and maintain a gracious nature but some do it for the corruption of their own personal results. Religion is another common filter that consistently promotes volunteer and charity work. I participate with a number of other youth at church with whom I go on Mission Trips in the summer. We travel to a cite that is in need of physical or emotional work such as Montana, West Virginia, and Alabama. These trip’s allowed the group of learn a better understanding of the varieties of culture while working through God. By doing the work we were satisfied with ourselves for putting in so much effort, but more satisfied with the outcome for the ones in need.
That is the true meaning of volunteer work. To work in a selfless manner and with compassion, instead of purely for selfish outcomes. Critics question whether volunteering and charities have been corrupted, but even if the participant is gaining a selfish prize, those in need are still being helped. The selfish factor is only a drive and motivation to achieve better results for the charity. Revision Argument (posted April 13 -- Peer Response April 15) Argument Essay
Volunteering and the act and concept of participating in charity work portrays kindness and caring for a person(s) in need. Communities often provide ample opportunities to give back. Most often volunteering is incorporated within religious activities, or in competitions throughout a school or a business. Charities promote their volunteer work by influencing the volunteer person or group of a selfless act to help others. Although volunteer work is almost always positive and helpful, the idea has been corrupted. Often the charities are rewarded with a selfish prize being their motivation to win, rather than give back. So is charity selfish, or selfless?
While taking part in volunteering it is healthy to maintain self recognition throughout these acts. Acknowledgement is important to understand the reason a person participates to help in the first place, to help others in need. These charities exist for one selfless reason, but simultaneously someone may gain something personal. The personal prize is not always materialistic, but may be a positive mental achievement knowing they helped a charity in need.
Middle Schools and High School often incorporate volunteer competitions or fundraisers in order to receive better results. Participants want to help and maintain a gracious nature but some do it for the corruption of their own personal results. Religion is another common filter that consistently promotes volunteer and charity work. I participate with a number of other youth at church with whom I go on Mission Trips in the summer. We travel to a cite that is in need of physical or emotional work such as Montana, West Virginia, and Alabama. These trip’s allowed the group of learn a better understanding of the varieties of culture while working through God. After helping with the work we were satisfied with ourselves for putting in so much effort, but more satisfied with the outcome for the ones in need. There is no greater feeling than knowing you improved a factor in another persons life.
That is the true meaning of volunteer work; to work in a selfless manner and with compassion, instead of purely for selfish outcomes. Critics question whether volunteering and charities have been corrupted, but even if the participant is gaining a selfish prize, those in need are still being helped. The selfish factor is only a drive and motivation to achieve better results for the charity.
Final Argument (posted April 20 -- Peer Response April 23) Argument Essay
Volunteering and participating in charity work portrays kindness and caring for a person in need. Communities often provide ample opportunities to give back. Most often volunteering is incorporated within religious activities, or in competitions throughout a school or a business. Charities promote their volunteer work by influencing the volunteer person or group of a selfless act to help others. Although volunteer work is almost always positive and helpful, the idea has been corrupted. Often the charities are rewarded with a selfish prize being their motivation to win, rather than give back. So is charity selfish, or selfless?
While taking part in volunteering it is healthy to maintain self recognition throughout these acts. Acknowledgement is important to understand the reason a person participates to help in the first place, to help others in need. These charities exist for one selfless reason, but simultaneously someone may gain something personal. The personal prize is not always materialistic, but may be a positive mental achievement knowing they helped a charity in need.
Middle Schools and High School often incorporate volunteer competitions or fundraisers in order to receive better results. Participants want to help and maintain a gracious nature but some do it for the corruption of their own personal results. Religion is another common filter that consistently promotes and persuades volunteers for charity work. I participate with a number of other youth at church with whom I go on Mission Trips in the summer. We travel to a cite that is in need of physical or emotional work such as Montana, West Virginia, and Alabama. These trip’s allowed the group of learn a better understanding of the varieties of culture while working through God. After helping with the work we were satisfied with ourselves for putting in so much effort, but more satisfied with the outcome for the ones in need. There is no greater feeling than knowing you graciously improved a factor in another persons life. The selfless act can outcome is not intended for personal gains.
That is the true meaning of volunteer work; to work in a selfless manner and with compassion, instead of purely for selfish outcomes. Critics question whether volunteering and charities have been corrupted, but even if the participant is gaining a selfish prize, those in need are still being helped. The selfish factor is only a drive and motivation to achieve better results for the charity, though society has altered a phony view of corruption for the actions.
The other positive factor of participating in volunteer work is taking a step back from your own life and realizing everything you are blessed with that society often overlooks. Simple things like running water and electricity are under appreciated until you help someone who lives so graciously without these material things. The work creates kindness in your heart through the hands of God. I believe it is important to volunteer selflessly and with love for others, personal gains aside, over looking the selfish motivations.
Reflection #3 (posted April 23)
The purpose of this writing was to learn how to write both sides of an argument for an agreeing, disagreeing, and neutral audience. I also learned how to white different ways of arguing such a block and piece by piece.
The intended audience was for a disagreeing audience because I mostly focused on ways to influence them since I wrote based upon my own opinion. I wrote to show the audience my logical and emotional reasonings.
The exigence of my topic is the immediacy of explaining the difference of opinion and why I believe the importance of volunteer work, selfish or selflessness aside.
My writing focuses on the message which is why volunteer work is not corrupted and the importance of giving back.
My tone is informative and somewhat passionate. But mostly the tone is explaining the logic backing up the message.
Maddie Culp - Letter of Introduction
I am generally a huge procrastinator, but this semester I hope to become more on top of my work. I also hope to become a stronger writer. What to know about me, I don’t play any sports. I have a job and I work every day. I go to all of the basketball games. My biggest challenges as a writer is my process. I tend to be all over the place and kind of un-organized when i begin writing. Probably a cause of my procrastination.
Personal Reflection on Topic of Inquiry(posted January 27 -- Peer Response January 29)
Topic of Inquiry
The major events that have shaped my life today have all been based around the youth group at the church I have been a member at for sixteen years. The youth group, called the Senior Highs, takes a summer trip every year to a developing community, a community that may be falling apart, or one in need of labor and love. Over the past three summers, my personal philosophy and life values have been drastically shaped and challenged. I have needed to rethink my values which were shaped from my culture and step into a complete opposite persons life to understand their way of living. My judgements towards my previous misconception about other cultures was changed for the better and I understand that different does not mean better or worse.
In Spanish III, we are learning about cultural awareness and ways to understand different life styles. Some customs in America are normal to us which may be frowned upon in other countries, and we are learning to respect the change. We were told to respond to what differences shock us and why. My response to all of the questions were based upon my morals and values, which I have been taught being raised and through church.
Recently, on a Wednesday night at church, the Senior Highs listened to a guest speaker who informed us about human trafficking. She spoke to us about about the statistics and ways to end the horrible act. Human trafficking, a modern form of slavery that is so oblivious to society is a global current crisis. The definition of human trafficking is the illegal trade of human beings for the purposes of reproductive slavery, commercial sexual exploitation, forced labor, or a modern-day form of slavery.
There are 161 countries reported to be affected with human trafficking, an unacceptable way of life, and it is all they know. It is what they have been taught in their culture to be normal. This act is is not something I will ever respect. The shocking statistic is how common slavery is in the United States and how unaware the country is. The term, “pimp” is used so loosely as if it has no real life meaning and is taken as a joke.
This serious crisis has shaped my view on self respect and taking advantage of my freedom. 98% of the victims to human trafficking are woman, and 95% of all victims experience sexual or physical violence. My question is, if so many people don’t have the privilege of freedom, why do so many free people disrespect and misuse their freedom? And why are we doing nothing to end slavery, an increasing illegal current issue?
Rough Draft Definition (posted February 3 -- Peer Response February 5)
At Westminster church, the senior highs meet every Wednesday for youth group. We are a close group because outside of this weekly time, we take a summer trip to do mission work. We are taught morals and acts of kindness in this time, and it has mostly shaped a majority of who participates in the youth as well as the leaders. A couple of months ago a guest speaker named Chelsea came to present a power point to the youth group. She informed us of a crisis that is affected greatly third world countries and even the United States. The crisis is slavery. But more specifically, human trafficking. There is a great misconception in the world that slavery refers to the imprisonment of colored people to do manual labor for white men and woman.
The term slavery can have many meanings, but in this case is defined in another classification. The specific classification for the term is human trafficking. This term can be described as the state of one bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Without further explanation hearing the term slave one might think of a different meaning. Human trafficking is the recruiting, transportation, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means for the purpose of exploiting them. The person is not gender or age specific but is more often young woman.
Society is blinded by the illegal actions because is some developing nations where the crime is most often committed, it is not illegal. Cambodia is an example of a country that does not take action against the act. In some countries in order to live, slavery is accepted. The money is a last resort and mandatory in families. Prostitution is the act or practice of engaging in promiscuous sexual relations in exchange for money. When slavery took place in the United States, slave owners would pay thousands of dollars for a person. Today, when a person who is subjugated to crime is paid little to none. The profits often go to the slaves “pimp.” The term pimp is loosely used in modern day. Pimp’s are associated with slang and are often incorporated in hip-hop.
Behind drug trafficking, human trafficking is the most common illegal act in the world. Brothel’s are the most common the place to hold prostitutes. A brothel is a place where the prostitutes live with their pimps. They are located all over the world. Yes, in the United States, too. If the crime was not just a number to society, and citizens had a face to match the terrifying stories, the crime would be more problematic to the media.
The ignorance among society has led the criminal act to escalade into a crisis that demands mandatory action in ending human trafficking. Day after day young girls and boys are forced to work in order to keep their lives, while kids in the United States complain of chores in a luxurious life style. The morals I have been raised with have taught me that this behavior, no matter what country or government are not with justice. The actions poorly display moral rectitude and the issue needs attention.
Sites Used
</span http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slavery_in_the_United_States http://school.discoveryeducation.com/schooladventures/slavery/
http://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/human-trafficking/what-is-human-trafficking.html
http://www.womensfundingnetwork.org/resource/past-articles/enslaved-in-america-sex-trafficking-in-the-united-states
http://www.iowastatedaily.com/news/article_8ec715f0-0034-11e1-8634-001cc4c03286.html
Revision Definition (posted February 10 -- Peer Response February 12 )
The youth group at Westminster Presbyterian Church, has been the most important factor of my life so far. This group of friends and leaders has shaped who I am today. The values and morals I have learned throughout the years volunteering and helping others have influenced me greatly. I have not only had the opportunity of helping people, but have had time to learn and become educated of those I cannot directly help. A couple of months ago a guest speaker named Chelsea came to present a power point to the youth group. She believed that informing us of the crisis could help. Chelsea’s power point focused on slavery and more specifically human trafficking. In modern days society, most individuals would say that slavery ended in the 1800’s along with racism in the South and Africa. This is a misconception because a standard definition of slavery refers to the imprisonment of colored people to do manual labor for white men and woman.
The term slavery can have many meanings, but in this case is defined in another classification. Exaggerations lead to ignorance and misconceptions in society. Many times teenagers of first world countries refer to the term slavery very loosely, as if they were slaves to their parents. This helps shape the definition of what human trafficking and slavery is not. Without further explanation hearing the term slave one might think of a different meaning. Human trafficking is the recruiting, transportation, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means for the purpose of exploiting them. The person is not gender or age specific but is more often young woman.
Human trafficking is happening now. Society is blinded by the illegal actions because is some developing nations where the crime is most often committed, it is not illegal. Cambodia is an example of a country that does not take action against the act. In fact in some countries it is accepted and even expected of some family members in order to live. In Cambodia, the head officer in the police department is also the in charge of the top brothel. A brothel is another word for a whore-house, or home of prostitution. Prostitution is the act or practice of engaging in promiscuous sexual relations in exchange for money. When slavery took place in the United States, slave owners would pay thousands of dollars for a person. Today, when a person who is subjugated to crime is paid little to none. The profits often go to the slaves “pimp.” The term pimp is loosely used in modern day. Pimp’s are associated with slang and are often incorporated in hip-hop.
Behind drug trafficking, human trafficking is the most common illegal act in the world. Brothel’s are the most common the place to hold prostitutes. These systems are located all over the world, even within the United States. Human trafficking occurs in these brothels that may be in your own back yard. If the crime was not just a number to society, and citizens had a face to match the terrifying stories, the crime would be more problematic to the media.
The ignorance among society has led the criminal act to escalade into a crisis that demands mandatory action in ending human trafficking. Day after day young girls and boys are forced to work in order to keep their lives, while kids in the United States complain of chores in a luxurious life style. I stated that I have not only had the opportunity of helping others but also learning of the things I cannot affect. But this is not true. By becoming part of the cause, and teaching those we are ignorant, we are making a difference. The morals I have been raised with have taught me that this behavior, no matter what country or government are not with justice. The actions poorly display moral rectitude and the issue needs attention.
Final Definition (posted February 17 -- Peer ResponseFebruary 19 ) (Are there changes between the revision above and the final draft? Mr. J)
Maddie Culp
Block 2
Mr. Johnson
AP Lang
Definition Essay
The youth group at Westminster Presbyterian Church, which I am a member of, has been the most important variable in my life. This group of friends and leaders has shaped who I am today because of the values and morals I have learned throughout the years volunteering and helping others. Unfortunately, I have not only had the opportunity of helping people. A couple of months ago a guest speaker named Chelsea came to present a power point to the youth group. She believed that by informing us on the tragedy it would help the cause. Chelsea’s power point focused on slavery and more specifically human trafficking. In modern days society, most individuals would say that slavery ended in the 1800’s along with racism in the South and Africa. This is a misconception because a standard definition of slavery refers to the imprisonment of colored people to do manual labor for white men and woman.
The term slavery can have many meanings, but in this case is defined in another classification. Teenagers have been known to make claims such as, “My parents treat me as their slave.” Exaggerations lead to ignorance and misconceptions in society. The specific classification for the term is human trafficking. This term can be described as the state of one bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Without further explanation hearing the term slave one might think of a different meaning. Human trafficking is the recruiting, transportation, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means for the purpose of exploiting them. The person is not gender or age specific but is more often young woman.
Human trafficking is happening now. Society is blinded by the illegal actions because is some developing nations where the crime is most often committed, it is not illegal. Cambodia is an example of a country that does not take action against the act. In fact in some countries it is accepted and even expected of some family members in order to live. In Cambodia, the head officer in the police department is also the in charge of the top brothel. A brothel is another word for a whore-house, or home of prostitution. Prostitution is the act or practice of engaging in promiscuous sexual relations in exchange for money. When slavery took place in the United States, slave owners would pay thousands of dollars for a person. Today, when a person who is subjugated to crime is paid little to none. The profits often go to the slaves “pimp.” The term pimp is loosely used in modern day. Pimp’s are associated with slang and are often incorporated in hip-hop.
Behind drug trafficking, human trafficking is the most common illegal act in the world. Brothel’s are the most common the place to hold prostitutes. These systems are located all over the world, even within the United States. If the crime was not just a number to society, and citizens had a face to match the terrifying stories, the crime would be more problematic to the media.
The ignorance among society has led the criminal act to escalade into a crisis that demands mandatory action in ending human trafficking. Day after day young girls and boys are forced to work in order to keep their lives, while kids in the United States complain of chores in a luxurious life style. The morals I have been raised with have taught me that this behavior, no matter what country or government are not with justice. The actions poorly display moral rectitude and the issue needs attention.
Reflection #1 (posted February 20 -- Peer Response February 22)
What was the purpose of the writing? How successfully did you meet this purpose?
The purpose of this writing was to educate society and define the misconception of the term, "slavery" and human trafficking. The term slavery in today's society is not as powerful and often misinterpreted as only history. Society is also very ignorant to the fact that slavery still exists and is happening now. It is a current issue that needs to be educated. I think I successfully defined the term as well as explained modern statistics and it's immediacy to be fought.
Who was your intended audience? How did you adapt your writing to appeal to this audience?
My intended audience was society and more specifically an uneducated high school. The audience could've been anyone who inquired to know more about the illegal acts or someone wanting to know the definition of the term. I adapted to the audience by breaking down the definition so that it could be fully understood by anyone. Being a high schooler myself, I know that teenagers do not connect to this topic well so I made it more personal by using pathos.
Explain the exigence that influenced the selection of your topic.
I wrote about this term because I was strongly influenced by the church I attend. A guest speaker came in to our church to educate the high schoolers of the crime. Because I was so struck by her presentation I thought that other kids as well might be interested in knowing the acts happening that we don't know about. I think living in a society with so much ignorance is pathetic and it is important to be aware of these things.
How does your writing draw attention to the key aspects of your message?
Ultimately I thought my message would get across to the reader by the way I organized and defined the essay. I knew I needed to get the attention of the audience by making it more personable and intense. My reason for writing the essay was to educate at that was the basis of the message.
In what ways did you create tone to reflect your persona?
The tone I used was informative but also a bit of satire. Making fun of a society that is so involved with major issues that cause attention to the press but not issues that directly affect the children of our country, and world.
Rough Draft Comparison (postedFebruary 24 -- Peer Response February 26 )
My computer didn't save my essay from last week......... So here is a general rough draft again that I will edit and add to throughout the week.
Maddie Culp
Block 2
AP Lang
5 March 2012
Comparison Essay
Slavery is term that has been incorporated throughout society since prehistoric times. During the middle ages in Greece and the Roman Empire, slavery reached its peak. Slavery then declined around the world until the 1500’s and 1600’s when colonization of the new world began. When morals and attitudes toward slavery began to change in the 1800’s it began to decline around the world. Slavery was abolished from the United States in 1865. History has defined slaves as the state of one, bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Slaves often worked on farms, working for those who captured them. Although some slaves worked to pay off debts, they were all considered the lowest of class. The United States knows slaves to be generally from Africa. The slaves were shipped over in the early 1600’s to Jamestown, Virginia. They were auctioned and sold to rich white plantation owners more so in the south. They were often split from their families who tried and more so than not failed to reunite. As technology advanced in the 1700’s, the slaves were less useful because they were not as productive. The slaves began to protest against their inhumane conditions and rebelled. The Revolutionary War was the beginning of significant attitude changes toward the liberty of whites. This attitude was primarily in the north. As the 1800’s progressed, the south began less in control of the blacks as their slaves. Racism and discrimination against the Africans and African-Americans carried on and even today still exists, but there is no longer slavery in the United States.
But in what sense has slavery been terminated... (I am going to write abou
Revision Comparison (posted March 2 -- Peer Response March 4)
Maddie Culp
Block 2
AP Lang
5 March 2012
Comparison Essay
Slavery is term that has been incorporated throughout society since prehistoric times. During the middle ages in Greece and the Roman Empire, slavery reached its peak. Slavery then declined around the world until the 1500’s and 1600’s when colonization of the new world began. When morals and attitudes toward slavery began to change in the 1800’s it began to decline around the world. Slavery was abolished from the United States in 1865. History has defined slaves as the state of one, bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Slaves often worked on farms, working for those who captured them. Although some slaves worked to pay off debts, they were all considered the lowest of class. The United States knows slaves to be generally from Africa. The slaves were shipped over in the early 1600’s to Jamestown, Virginia. They were auctioned and sold to rich white plantation owners more so in the south. They were often split from their families who tried and more so than not failed to reunite. As technology advanced in the 1700’s, the slaves were less useful because they were not as productive. The slaves began to protest against their inhumane conditions and rebelled. The Revolutionary War was the beginning of significant attitude changes toward the liberty of whites. This attitude was primarily in the north. As the 1800’s progressed, the south began less in control of the blacks as their slaves. Racism and discrimination against the Africans and African-Americans carried on and even today still exists, but there is no longer slavery in the United States.
But in what sense has slavery been terminated... In modern society, a form of slavery is at an all time peak. This slavery is called human trafficking. Human trafficking is found within the United States, bordering countries, and most commonly in third world countries. This type of modern slavery is defined as an act of recruiting, transporting, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means, for the purpose of exploiting them. Humans that are objected to human trafficking, share the comparison with previous slavery, that another person has control over them. Often the persons objected to human trafficking are kid-napped or lured into a trap. At this point the pimps use the person most commonly as sex slaves. A major contrast between previous slavery and the modern human trafficking is the cost of the person. In the 1800’s slave owners would pay an average of $7,000/slave. A pimp considers their sex slaves almost worthless and if they are not kidnapped they may pay $100 per person. These people, more often woman than man, are then abused by whomever decides to use them.
Final Comparison (posted March 9 -- Peer Response March 11)
Early Slavery v. Modern Slavery
Slavery is a term that has been incorporated throughout society forever. During the middle ages, in Greece and the Roman Empire, slavery reached its peak. Slavery then began declined all around the world until the 1500’s and 1600’s, at which time colonization of the New World began. The slaves were shipped to the United States in the early 1600’s, to Jamestown, Virginia as colonization began. In the 1800’s morals regarding slavery began slowly transforming and as a result slavery declined around the world. Slavery was abolished from the United States in 1865. Slavery has impacted the world to this day, and prejudice views still remain.
History has defined slaves as the state of one, bound in servitude as the property of a slaveholder or household. Slaves often worked on farms, working for those who captured them. Although some slaves worked to pay off debts, they were all considered the lowest of class. The United States commonly knew slaves to be from parts Africa. They were auctioned to rich, white, plantation owners of the south. Families were separated as another way to decrease their humanity.
By the 1700’s, technology began advancing, resulting in the cost of slaves to decline because they were less productive. The slaves began to protest against their inhumane conditions and rebelled, which led to the Revolutionary War. The war was the beginning of significant attitude changes towards liberty of slaves. The war ultimately led to a legal end of slavery but racism and discrimination against the Africans and African-Americans has carried on to this day.
But in what sense has slavery been terminated... In modern society, a form of slavery is at an all time peak. This slavery is called human trafficking. Human trafficking is found within the United States, in bordering countries, and most commonly in third world countries. This type of modern slavery is defined as an act of recruiting, transporting, transferring, harboring or receiving a person through a use of force, coercion or other means, for the purpose of exploiting them.
Victims that are objected to human trafficking share common traits as previous slavery. Both types of slavery consist of another person having control over the other. Often the person objected to human trafficking is kid-napped or taken under their own will. Human trafficking is most often focused around physical harassment and using the victims as a sex slave.
When comparing slaves from the past to human sex slaves, a major contrast is the price of a person. In the 1800’s, rich slave owners would pay an average of $7,000/slave. Currently, because human trafficking is illegal, the most common way a pimp or brothel will bring in slaves is by abduction or trade. These slaves, more often woman than man, are then abused by whomever decides to use them.
Slavery of the past has been overcome in society and fought. Human trafficking is not as controversial today as slavery was in the 1800‘s when it was fought, because it is such an ignorant topic to a majority of society. Both types of slavery are morally wrong and unjust. Two types of slavery, with similar traits that are inhumane in society and to the individual, and one has yet to be overcome.
Reflection #2 (posted March 16 -- Peer Response March 25)
The purpose was to learn how to analyze and compare two subjects at a collegiate level. My essay compared to two different types of slavery and also to inform a general audience. My intended audience was my classmates and Mr. Johnson. I adapted my writing in a way to explain because knowledge of human trafficking is an ignorant subject to most of society. The exigence of my writing was influenced by my personal experience at church. As we began to learn about the subject I felt it was necessary to engage myself more, and research further, as well as inform others. My essay is in the block format, which allows key points to be made and drawn attention to. The paragraphs explain the difference of the two forms of slavery. My tone was informative and had a little pathos, so the audience would feel more engaged and personal.
Rough Draft Argument (posted April 6 -- Peer Response April 8)
Argument Essay
The act and concept of volunteering and participating in charity work displays kindness and caring for another person, a group, a cooperation, etc. There are ample opportunities throughout communities to give back; a few of them including religious, school incorporated, and business competitions. Charities promote their volunteer work by influencing the volunteer person or group of a selfless act to help others. Although volunteer work is almost always positive and helpful, the idea has been corrupted. Often the charities are rewarded with a selfish prize being their motivation win rather than give back. So is charity selfish, or selfless?
While volunteering it is healthy to maintain self recognition while doing these acts and acknowledging the reason a person participates to help in the first place. Although while helping, it is important to understand and remember why these charities exist and what the cause is for.
Middle Schools and High School often incorporate volunteer competitions or fundraisers in order to receive better results. Participants want to help and maintain a gracious nature but some do it for the corruption of their own personal results. Religion is another common filter that consistently promotes volunteer and charity work. I participate with a number of other youth at church with whom I go on Mission Trips in the summer. We travel to a cite that is in need of physical or emotional work such as Montana, West Virginia, and Alabama. These trip’s allowed the group of learn a better understanding of the varieties of culture while working through God. By doing the work we were satisfied with ourselves for putting in so much effort, but more satisfied with the outcome for the ones in need.
That is the true meaning of volunteer work. To work in a selfless manner and with compassion, instead of purely for selfish outcomes. Critics question whether volunteering and charities have been corrupted, but even if the participant is gaining a selfish prize, those in need are still being helped. The selfish factor is only a drive and motivation to achieve better results for the charity.
Revision Argument (posted April 13 -- Peer Response April 15)
Argument Essay
Volunteering and the act and concept of participating in charity work portrays kindness and caring for a person(s) in need. Communities often provide ample opportunities to give back. Most often volunteering is incorporated within religious activities, or in competitions throughout a school or a business. Charities promote their volunteer work by influencing the volunteer person or group of a selfless act to help others. Although volunteer work is almost always positive and helpful, the idea has been corrupted. Often the charities are rewarded with a selfish prize being their motivation to win, rather than give back. So is charity selfish, or selfless?
While taking part in volunteering it is healthy to maintain self recognition throughout these acts. Acknowledgement is important to understand the reason a person participates to help in the first place, to help others in need. These charities exist for one selfless reason, but simultaneously someone may gain something personal. The personal prize is not always materialistic, but may be a positive mental achievement knowing they helped a charity in need.
Middle Schools and High School often incorporate volunteer competitions or fundraisers in order to receive better results. Participants want to help and maintain a gracious nature but some do it for the corruption of their own personal results. Religion is another common filter that consistently promotes volunteer and charity work. I participate with a number of other youth at church with whom I go on Mission Trips in the summer. We travel to a cite that is in need of physical or emotional work such as Montana, West Virginia, and Alabama. These trip’s allowed the group of learn a better understanding of the varieties of culture while working through God. After helping with the work we were satisfied with ourselves for putting in so much effort, but more satisfied with the outcome for the ones in need. There is no greater feeling than knowing you improved a factor in another persons life.
That is the true meaning of volunteer work; to work in a selfless manner and with compassion, instead of purely for selfish outcomes. Critics question whether volunteering and charities have been corrupted, but even if the participant is gaining a selfish prize, those in need are still being helped. The selfish factor is only a drive and motivation to achieve better results for the charity.
Final Argument (posted April 20 -- Peer Response April 23)
Argument Essay
Volunteering and participating in charity work portrays kindness and caring for a person in need. Communities often provide ample opportunities to give back. Most often volunteering is incorporated within religious activities, or in competitions throughout a school or a business. Charities promote their volunteer work by influencing the volunteer person or group of a selfless act to help others. Although volunteer work is almost always positive and helpful, the idea has been corrupted. Often the charities are rewarded with a selfish prize being their motivation to win, rather than give back. So is charity selfish, or selfless?
While taking part in volunteering it is healthy to maintain self recognition throughout these acts. Acknowledgement is important to understand the reason a person participates to help in the first place, to help others in need. These charities exist for one selfless reason, but simultaneously someone may gain something personal. The personal prize is not always materialistic, but may be a positive mental achievement knowing they helped a charity in need.
Middle Schools and High School often incorporate volunteer competitions or fundraisers in order to receive better results. Participants want to help and maintain a gracious nature but some do it for the corruption of their own personal results. Religion is another common filter that consistently promotes and persuades volunteers for charity work. I participate with a number of other youth at church with whom I go on Mission Trips in the summer. We travel to a cite that is in need of physical or emotional work such as Montana, West Virginia, and Alabama. These trip’s allowed the group of learn a better understanding of the varieties of culture while working through God. After helping with the work we were satisfied with ourselves for putting in so much effort, but more satisfied with the outcome for the ones in need. There is no greater feeling than knowing you graciously improved a factor in another persons life. The selfless act can outcome is not intended for personal gains.
That is the true meaning of volunteer work; to work in a selfless manner and with compassion, instead of purely for selfish outcomes. Critics question whether volunteering and charities have been corrupted, but even if the participant is gaining a selfish prize, those in need are still being helped. The selfish factor is only a drive and motivation to achieve better results for the charity, though society has altered a phony view of corruption for the actions.
The other positive factor of participating in volunteer work is taking a step back from your own life and realizing everything you are blessed with that society often overlooks. Simple things like running water and electricity are under appreciated until you help someone who lives so graciously without these material things. The work creates kindness in your heart through the hands of God. I believe it is important to volunteer selflessly and with love for others, personal gains aside, over looking the selfish motivations.
Reflection #3 (posted April 23)